THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL 52 | FEBRUARY 2025 From the Executive Director By Janet Johnson Staying Motivated as a Lawyer During the Winter Months THE WINTER MONTHS CAN present unique challenges to maintaining motivation, especially in the demanding profession of law. As the days grow shorter and colder, it can be easy to slip into a pattern of low energy, diminished focus or even burnout. However, staying motivated during this time is essential to maintaining productivity, meeting client expectations and achieving personal career goals. So how can we combat this? How can we stay motivated during the winter months? I propose a few tips and tricks for you to consider. SET CLEAR AND ACHIEVABLE GOALS Winter can sometimes feel like a time for reflection and slowing down. However, it’s essential to use this time productively. One way to do so is by setting clear, measurable and achievable goals. Breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks can keep you on track while preventing you from feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s completing a specific number of billable hours, submitting filings or simply making progress on long-term cases, having a clear direction will keep you engaged. Having both short-term and long-term goals is important. Short-term goals can help you focus on daily or weekly tasks, while long-term goals provide a larger sense of purpose. Celebrating small wins can give a sense of accomplishment and motivation to push forward. MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT ROUTINE The colder weather can disrupt your routine, particularly when it gets harder to get out of bed or face a long commute. However, establishing and sticking to a consistent routine is critical for maintaining focus and motivation. Start by setting a regular work schedule, even if you’re working from home. This could include designated breaks, set start and end times for the day and time for physical activity. Routines reduce the mental burden of decision-making, allowing you to focus your energy on more productive tasks. Furthermore, adding personal routines, such as morning coffee or a brief walk during lunch, can help break up the monotony and reenergize you. PRACTICE SELF-CARE AND MAINTAIN ENERGY LEVELS The winter months can sometimes affect your physical and mental well-being. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a common condition during the colder months and can contribute to feelings of lethargy or sadness. To combat this, prioritize self-care,
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